Cracklin Bread Recipe

If you’ve ever had Southern-style cornbread with a savory twist, you already know why cracklin bread is such a beloved dish. This cracklin bread recipe brings together the rustic charm of old-fashioned cornbread and the irresistible crunch of crispy pork cracklings (rendered pork fat with bits of skin).

Originating in the American South, cracklin bread was a farmhouse favorite, especially in regions where nothing went to waste. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with smoky flavor from the pork. Whether served as a side to beans, greens, or chili, or enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of honey, this bread captures authentic Southern comfort in every bite.

Cracklin Bread Recipe | Southern Cornbread with Crispy Pork Cracklings

Recipe by Emma Cooper

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

285

kcal

Ingredients

1 ½ cups cornmeal (yellow, stone-ground preferred)
1 tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
3 tbsp melted bacon grease (or butter)
1 cup pork cracklings, chopped (about 5 oz)
½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
½ cup all-purpose flour
Optional: 1 tbsp sugar (for a touch of sweetness)

Directions

Preheat oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet inside to heat while you mix the batter.
Prepare dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar if using.
Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine buttermilk, eggs, and melted bacon grease.
Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just blended—don’t overmix.
Add cracklings: Fold in the chopped pork cracklings evenly throughout the batter.
Bake: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven, add a little bacon grease or butter to coat, then pour in the batter.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and firm in the center.
Cool and serve: Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve warm with butter or honey.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: ~285 kcal
Protein: 9g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g

What Is Cracklin Bread?

Cracklin bread is a Southern tradition that goes back generations. It’s essentially cornbread with pork cracklings baked inside. The cracklings small bits of fried or roasted pork skin add a salty crunch that balances the soft, crumbly texture of the cornbread.

This dish was popular among rural families who used every part of the pig, turning leftover cracklings from lard-making into a flavorful ingredient for bread.

If you enjoy traditional comfort dishes like this, you might also love our How to Make Bread Stuffing Balls 1940s Recipe, another nostalgic recipe that captures the taste of old-fashioned home cooking.

Choosing the Best Cracklings

For authentic cracklin bread, you’ll want real pork cracklings, not the puffed pork rinds you find in snack bags. Cracklings are denser, meatier, and have a little bit of fat still attached.

You can:

Buy pre-made cracklings from butcher shops or Southern markets.
Render your own: Slowly cook diced pork belly or pork skin in a skillet until crispy and golden. Drain and chop before adding to the batter.

For a slightly lighter version, substitute part of the cracklings with crumbled bacon for the same smoky flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Cracklin Bread

Use a cast-iron skillet. It gives your bread that crispy, golden crust.
Preheat your skillet. Pouring the batter into a hot pan makes the edges crunchy.
Don’t overmix. Stir just enough to combine the ingredients so your bread stays tender.
Adjust texture. For denser bread, add less buttermilk; for lighter, add a few extra tablespoons.
Add flavor twists. A handful of cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, or diced onions can take it to another level.

If you enjoy Southern-inspired bakes, you might also love our Butterscotch Pound Cake Recipe rich, moist, and full of old-fashioned charm.

Cracklin Bread Serving Ideas

Cracklin bread is best enjoyed warm, but it’s versatile enough to accompany all kinds of meals. Here are a few classic pairings:

With collard greens – The salty, crunchy bread complements the earthy greens perfectly.
With chili or stew – Soak up savory broths and sauces with each bite.
With beans and ham hocks – A traditional Southern combo.
As breakfast bread – Spread with butter and drizzle with honey or molasses.

It’s hearty enough to stand alone but makes any Southern-style meal feel complete.

Modern Twists on Traditional Cracklin Bread

While the classic recipe is unbeatable, you can adapt it for modern diets and tastes.

🌽 Sweet Cracklin Cornbread

Add ¼ cup sugar or honey to the batter for a subtle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the salty cracklings.

🌶 Jalapeño Cracklin Bread

Stir in 2 tablespoons of diced jalapeños for a spicy, smoky kick.

🧀 Cheesy Cracklin Bread

Add ½ cup shredded cheddar for a gooey, flavorful loaf that pairs perfectly with chili or soup.

For another hearty, rustic dish, check out our Roam Diet Recipes, which focus on wholesome, protein-rich meals inspired by traditional ingredients.

Storage & Reheating

Room temperature: Store leftover cracklin bread in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate: Keeps up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for 10 minutes to restore crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make cracklin bread without buttermilk?
Yes mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes, and use as a substitute.

2. What can I use instead of pork cracklings?
You can use crispy bacon, pancetta, or even turkey bacon for a lighter option.

3. Can I bake it in a muffin tin?
Absolutely. Pour the batter into greased muffin cups and bake for 20–22 minutes for cracklin cornbread muffins.

Final Thoughts

This cracklin bread recipe is a true taste of the South golden, crispy, savory, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re reviving a family tradition or trying it for the first time, it’s a simple way to bring comfort and nostalgia to your table.

Serve it warm with butter or alongside your favorite Southern dishes for a meal that feels like home.

If you love rustic, traditional recipes, don’t miss our Banana Bread Recipe another moist, flavorful bake that’s perfect for any occasion.